Renowned trumpeter and composer Rick Braun has been a defining figure in the smooth jazz scene for over three decades.

Born in Allentown, PA., the 69-year-old artist developed a passion for music early on, mastering not only the trumpet but also the flugelhorn, piano, and vocals while still in high school. He also attended the prestigious Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York.

Now, with more than 20 albums to his name, including landmark releases like Intimate Secrets, Beat Street, Kisses in the Rain, and Groovin', Braun, who cites Miles Davis, Lee Morgan, Chet Baker, Clark Terry, Dizzy Gillespie, and Herb Alpert as his biggest musical influences, has established himself as one of the genre's most influential artists.

His ability to blend jazz with pop, R&B, and Latin influences has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase, as well as numerous Billboard chart-topping hits.

Braun's illustrious career is marked by his versatility and wide-ranging collaborations, with music legends like REO Speedwagon, Sade, Natalie Cole, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner, and Tom Petty. He's also teamed up with smooth jazz icons such as Dave Koz, Boney James, Peter White, Kirk Whalum and Norman Brown, creating a sound that is both innovative and timeless.

Although Braun is constantly touring, he still makes time to enjoy the Christmas season with his family, as Christmas is his favorite time of year. He's been
performing in support of his new album It's Christmas. Braun will ring in the New Year with fellow smooth jazz greats Richard Elliott, Gerald Albright, Peter White, Lindsey Webster, Nathan Mitchell, Marcus Anderson, and Julian Vaugh at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Florida, on Dec. 30-31.

Having seen Braun perform numerous times, including standout shows in Los Angeles and the now-closed Radisson Hotel in Sacramento, I can confidently say his live performances are nothing short of spectacular—capturing the heart and soul of his music and leaving audiences eager for more.

N2Entertainment.net recently caught up with Braun by phone to discuss his latest Christmas album, It's Christmas. This is Braun's fourth holiday album, following Christmas Present, Swinging in the Snow, and Pinot Noir Brass Christmas.

Despite a hoarse voice from cheering on his Philadelphia Eagles at the Los Angeles Rams game, at SoFi stadium, Braun--who resides in Los Angeles--was as personable and engaging as ever.

The trumpeter also shared his plans, reaffirming his passion for music and performing for his loyal fanbase.

Q. Congratulations on another fantastic holiday release with It's Christmas. Can you tell us more about the album and the collaborators involved?

A. Thank you. It's Christmas is really special to me. It has such a range of musical styles. It gave me the opportunity to collaborate with Grammy-nominated organist/keyboardist and one of the best around, Philippe Saisse on the first single, "Deck Those Halls." The core group of musicians are incredibly talented. They include David Finck (bass), Darryl Williams (bass), Gregg Bissonette (drums), Nate Phillips (bass), Craig Sharmat (guitar), and my Pinot Noir Brass band, featuring Jeff Bunnell on trumpet, John Dickson on French horn, Doug Tornquist on tuba, and Nick Lane on trombone. We also have Luca Allemano (bass), Eric Valentine (drums), and Joe La Barbera (drums) rounding out the lineup.

Q. What does Christmas mean to you? Do you still have that wide-eyed childlike wonder about the Christmas season?

A. Yes, most definitely. I've always loved Christmas. I'm a real hands-on kind of guy decorating and scurrying all around making sure that all the lights and everything are all decked out at our house. I actually just love the spirit of Christmas. I know it sounds cliche, but even if people can show kindness and compassion for a month, that's a beautiful thing.

Q. What is your all-time favorite Christmas song? And as a movie critic, I'd be remiss if I didn't ask what is your favorite Christmas movie?

A. There are so many Christmas songs I really like, but I would have to say overall, "The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)" is my favorite. It's the definitive Christmas song from Mel Torme, although I have yet to hear anyone sing a bad version of it. Speaking of Mel Torme, not long ago I had his son come over to the house and we sang "The Christmas Song" and I played solo on it. It was a wonderful moment. As far as my favorite Christmas movie--and I'm going way back on this one--I'd have to say "White Christmas" with Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney.

Q. Is there anyone you would like to record with that you haven't yet?

A. Bob James. He's an extraordinary jazz keyboardist, arranger, and record producer. It could be a duet, or anything. I'd love to see what we could produce together.

Q. What's next on the horizon for you?

A. My next big project is the New Year's Eve Festival in Orlando, Florida, (Dec. 30-31) where I'll be performing with Gerald Albright, Peter White, Marcus Anderson, and others. I have been part of this event for the past 15 years, and both the fans and I always look forward to it. For those interested there are more details on my website at www.rickbraun.com. This summer, (July 11-18), I'll be performing with jazz guitarist Marc Antoine on a river cruise in Porto, Portugal, aboard the Ama Sintra. Although the trip is sold out, it's bound to be another wonderful experience.

Q. Thanks so much for your time, Rick. I really like It's Christmas.

A. Thank you, Lana. And Go Eagles! (Laughs).

Editor's Note: For more information on Rick Braun's new album, "It's Christmas" and other upcoming tour dates, visit www.rickbraun.com.